Dermatome
It is a cutaneous area that is supplied by nerve fibres from the posterior root of any spinal nerve. The cervical nerves (except C1), thoracic nerves, sacral nerves and lumbar nerves relay the information or sensation from the dermatome area to the brain.
Each section of the dermatome is supplied by a distinct nerve. The area of nerve intervention is unique in every individual. Human dermatomes are 30 in number, based on the specific spinal nerve that they correspond to. Thus, they are useful in diagnosing any discomfort related to a specific nerve root.
Cutaneous Innervation
It refers to the skin surface that is supplied by a specific nerve (cutaneous nerve). They are the primary nerve interventions that provide sensation to the skin.
The dermatomes become less specific if one spinal nerve serves more cutaneous nerves. Likewise, in most cases, they become more specific as one cutaneous nerve is derived from many spinal nerves.
Also Refer: Structure and Functions of Skin
Difference between Dermatome and Cutaneous Innervation
| Dermatome | Cutaneous Innervation |
|---|---|
| It is a cutaneous area supplied by a particular spinal nerve. | It is an area on the skin surface that is intervened by a particular cutaneous nerve. |
| The nerve supply is from the posterior root of any single spinal nerve. | The nerve supply is from a specific cutaneous nerve. |
Also Read: Spinal Cord
Frequently Asked Questions
What are cutaneous nerves?
They are nerve fibres that provide nerve supply to the area of the skin. They are primarily responsible for sensory information.
What are spinal nerves?
They are nerves that conduct sensory, motor and autonomic signals between the human body and spine. Spinal nerves are grouped into thoracic, lumbar, cervical, sacral and coccygeal nerves.
How is myotome different from dermatome?
Myotome refers to the muscle area that is intervened by a single specific nerve root. Whereas dermatomes are associated with the skin area. The former is responsible for muscle movements, and the latter is responsible for sensory coordination.
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